Kenneth Wayne Harris

They came to Arvin, California to escape the Oklahoma dust bowl, settled in the famous sunset camp, and on the afternoon of November 6, 1951, Lorraine Anderson and Henry Harris welcomed their son Kenneth Wayne Harris into the world. Kenn described his childhood, growing up with his mother and stepfather Arthur “Barlow” Harris as full and happy. Young Kenn loved caring for his animals, a skill he learned from Barlow. As a boy scout, he enjoyed camping and other outdoor activities.

Kenn’s maternal grandfather Wortha Anderson and his mother both suffered from heart disease and he developed an interest in supporting the American Heart Association. Kenn served on the board of directors of that organization and was active in coordinating their Annual Bud Light Triathlon Fund Raiser.

On July 11, 1966, Kenn kissed the love of his life, Barbara, for the first time he had wanted that kiss for 8 years. She kissed him for the last time on July 11 2021.

In the 55 years between first and last kiss, they dated, went steady, broke up, got back together numerous times, married, and became the parents of three boys.

During that half-century, kenn worked as an undercover agent for the state department of consumer affairs. He was a technical director in the local television industry for 6 years, an aerobics instructor, a cosmetologist and a cosmetology instructor all while working nights as a security guard and motel clerk. In pursuit of his hobby, go ju karate, kenn earned a black belt with 5 red stripes.

In 1995, Kenn found his true calling when he became a care provider for developmentally disabled adults. A 2008 back injury cut his career short. He was so loved by his former clients that they continued to interact with him and his family, spending several holidays at the Harris home.

On July 18, 2021, kenn lost his battle with leukemia.

He is survived by his wife Barbara; his mother Lorraine Harris; Sons Richard, Kenneth II and Miles; Daughter-in-Law Rita Harris; Grandchildren Kius Lindell Nathaniel Harris, Lynea Harris, Timothy Whitfield, Jakobi Harris and Winter Anthony; Sisters Wyvanne, Vicky and Yuvette; Brothers-in-law Ricky Franklin, James Sparks and Tony Rice; Brother Arthur Harris, Jr.; Nieces Marilyn Franklin, Tiffany Neal, Tashawn Harris and Chyve Harris; Nephews“Little”Art, Ariel, Zion and Isaiha; Grand Neices Kylynn Franklin and Areola Harris;Grand Nephews Kyzelle Franklin, Karaji Franklin, Aaydan Harris and Landon Harris; and a host of other relatives and friends.

‘The world was a better place with him in it.” Gregory l. Jackson, a good friend

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hillcrestmemorial.com for the Harris family.